3.

5 WORK METHODOLOGY AND

SCHEDULE

TEWODROS ADMASSU GENERAL

CONTRACTOR
 BRIDGE CONSTRUCTION WORK
METHOLOGY
INTRODUCTION

Background of Bridge Construction

A bridge is a key element in a transportation system for three reasons:

 It likely controls the capacity of the system.

 It is the highest cost per mile of the system.
 If the bridge fails, the system fails.
If the width of a bridge is insufficient to carry the number of lanes required to handle the traffic
volume, the bridge will be a constriction to the flow of traffic. If the strength of a bridge is
deficient and unable to carry heavy trucks, load limits will be posted and truck traffic will be
rerouted.

The bridge controls both the volume and weight of the traffic carried by the system. Bridges are
expensive. The typical cost per mile of a bridge is many times that of the approach roads to the
bridge. This is a major investment and must be carefully planned for best use of the limited funds
available for a transportation system.

When a bridge is removed from service and not replaced, the transportation system may be
restricted in its function. Traffic may be detoured over routes not designed to handle the increase
in volume. Users of the system experience increased travel times and fuel expenses. Normalcy
does not return until the bridge is repaired or replaced.

Because a bridge is a key element in a transportation system, balance must be achieved between
handling future traffic volume and loads and the cost of a heavier and wider bridge structure.
Strength is always a foremost consideration but so should measures to prevent deterioration. The
designer of new bridges has control over these parameters and must make wise decisions so that
capacity and cost are in balance, and safety is not compromised.
Overview of Bridge Construction Process
In the context of bridge construction, method statements hold paramount importance. They are
instrumental in ensuring the safety of workers, as bridge construction often involves working at
height, over water, or near traffic. A well-prepared method statement helps to identify potential
hazards and establish control measures to prevent accidents. Moreover, these documents are
crucial for ensuring compliance with legal and regulatory requirements, which can be stringent in
the construction industry. They serve as a record that due diligence was followed in planning and
executing the work, which can be vital for inspections and audits.

Method statements also play a vital role in the overall project planning and management. They
help in resource allocation by detailing the exact requirements for the project, thus avoiding
wastage and ensuring that the right materials and equipment are available when needed.
Additionally, they are key in risk management, as they force the planning team to think through
each step of the construction process and prepare for any potential issues that could arise.

The bridge construction process itself is a complex and multi-faceted endeavor that involves
several stages, from initial design to the final completion. The process begins with a thorough
design phase where engineers create detailed plans and specifications for the bridge. Following
this, a series of preparatory works are undertaken, which may include site clearing, ground
stabilization, and the establishment of foundations. The construction phase then sees the
assembly of the bridge’s substructure and superstructure, which requires precise engineering and
skilled craftsmanship. Finally, the bridge undergoes finishing works, such as paving and
painting, before it is inspected and opened for use.

Throughout this process, a diverse team of professionals, including architects, engineers,

construction managers, and safety officers, work collaboratively to bring the bridge from concept
to reality. Each professional has distinct responsibilities, yet they all share the common goal of
ensuring the project is completed on time, within budget, and to the required quality standards.
The method statement is a tool that supports this collaborative effort, providing a clear and
shared understanding of how the project will be carried out.

When choosing a construction method for a bridge, several considerations must be taken into
account, such as the bridge’s intended use, the geographical and environmental conditions of the
site, and the materials available. Different types of bridges, such as beam, arch, suspension, or
cable-stayed, each have their own specific construction methodologies. The method statement
helps to outline the chosen construction method and ensures that all team members are aligned
with the approach, contributing to a cohesive and well-organized project execution.

Site Investigation and Surveys

The planning phase is a cornerstone in the construction of any bridge, setting the stage for all
subsequent activities. It begins with meticulous site investigation and surveys, which are vital to
understand the geological and topographical characteristics of the location. Engineers and
surveyors collect data on soil quality, water flow, and potential obstacles that could impact the
construction process. This information is crucial in determining the feasibility of the project and
in planning the placement and design of the bridge.

Environmental Impact Assessment

Following the initial site assessment, an environmental impact assessment (EIA) is conducted.
The EIA evaluates the potential effects of the bridge construction on the local environment,
including the impact on wildlife, vegetation, water quality, and noise levels. The goal is to
minimize ecological disruption and ensure that the project complies with environmental
regulations and sustainability practices. This step is not only a legal requirement in many
jurisdictions but also a moral obligation to preserve the surrounding ecosystem for future
generations.

Design Considerations and Engineering Plans

Design considerations and engineering plans are then developed based on the findings from the
site investigation and the EIA. During this stage, architects and engineers create detailed
blueprints that outline the structural components of the bridge, such as the foundation, supports,
and surface. These plans must balance aesthetic appeal with functionality and safety, all while
adhering to budgetary constraints. The design phase also includes the selection of construction
methods and the planning of logistics to ensure the smooth progression of the project.

Selection of Materials and Equipment

The final step in the planning phase is the selection of materials and equipment. The choice of
materials is influenced by a variety of factors, including the bridge’s intended load capacity,
environmental conditions, and maintenance requirements. Durability, cost, and availability are
also key considerations. Equipment selection is equally important, as the right machinery can
enhance efficiency and safety on site. This step requires close collaboration between
procurement specialists, engineers, and construction managers to ensure that the chosen
materials and equipment align with the project’s overall goals and design specifications.

The planning phase is a multifaceted process that lays the groundwork for successful bridge
construction. It requires a careful balance of technical expertise, environmental stewardship, and
strategic foresight to ensure that the bridge not only stands the test of time but also harmonizes
with its surroundings and serves the needs of the community.

Health and Safety Planning

Health and safety are paramount in any construction project. A comprehensive safety plan must
be developed and implemented. This plan includes identifying potential hazards, establishing
safety protocols, and ensuring all safety equipment is available and maintained. Regular safety
audits and inspections are scheduled to ensure ongoing compliance with the safety plan. The goal
is to create a safe working environment that minimizes the risk of accidents and injuries.

Work force Training and Briefing

A well-trained workforce is essential for the efficient and safe execution of a bridge construction
project. Training programs are designed to ensure that all workers have the necessary skills and
knowledge to perform their tasks safely and effectively. This includes training on equipment
operation, safety procedures, and quality control measures. Additionally, regular briefing
sessions are held to keep the workforce informed about project updates, changes in construction
plans, and any other relevant information.

Establishing Communication Protocols

Clear and effective communication is crucial for the coordination of a large-scale construction
project. Communication protocols are established to ensure that information flows smoothly
between all parties involved, including construction teams, project managers, engineers, and
stakeholders. These protocols may include regular meetings, reporting procedures, and the use of
project management software. By establishing these communication channels, the project can
maintain transparency, respond quickly to issues, and ensure that everyone is aligned with the
project objectives.

Each of these activities is a foundational element in the bridge construction process, setting the
stage for a project that is well-organized, compliant with regulations, and executed with the
highest regard for safety and efficiency.

CONSTRUCTION METHODOLOGY
Bridge construction employs Site Inspection & Planning, Setting the Foundation, Installing Piers
& Bridge Supports, Completing the Superstructure and Final Quality & Safety Inspections.
Before any physical work commences, the construction site must be prepared. This involves
clearing the land, setting up temporary facilities such as offices and storage areas, and ensuring
access routes are established for vehicles and equipment. Securing permits is also a critical step
in this phase. It involves obtaining all necessary local, state, and federal approvals to proceed
with construction. This legal groundwork is essential to ensure that the project meets all
regulatory standards and avoids future legal complications.

Detour Roads and River Diversions

A detour road will be constructed when the road elevation is less than 5 meters above the
riverbed. A temporary bridge will be constructed when the road elevation is more than 5 meters.
No embankment and/or jetty are assumed as the temporary construction road because most rivers
are generally dry during the dry season. When the river flow is affected by backflow of the
River, a detour road or a temporary bridge will be constructed on the upstream of the bridge. A
schematic construction plan is shown in Figure below.
 Schematic Construction Plan

River diversions are used to make a dry worksite for the vast majority of construction projects. In
many cases though – such as when working in flowing water to construct or repair a bridge – it’s
not easy to provide one. In such cases you will need to divert the water as opposed to damming
it.

One way of diverting the water would be to create a temporary diversion within the body of
water. Water could be diverted away from the specific area of the bridge you are currently
working on. This diversion could then be repositioned as your team works on separate areas of
the bridge at a time. This would then enable repairs to be completed over a period of time.

Foundation Construction (e.g., Piling, Caissons)

The foundation is the most critical element of bridge construction, as it supports the entire
structure. Techniques such as piling or caissons are employed based on the soil conditions and
the design of the bridge. Piling involves driving steel, concrete, or wood piles into the ground to
reach a stable subsoil. Caissons are large, watertight boxes or cylinders that are constructed in
place and then sunk to the desired depth. The choice between piling and caissons depends on
factors such as the bridge location, water depth, and load requirements.

PILING
The most common way to construct a deep foundation for a bridge is called piling. Long,
narrow posts called piles are hoisted into the air by a crane and driven into the ground by a large
hammer called a piledriver (not that piledriver). After the pile reaches the required depth, it is
capped off and tied. Piles can be made of a number of materials such as steel, concrete, and even
wood. However, prefabricated concrete is the most common.

When to Use Pile Foundation

Often the question rises are the situations where pile foundation are suitable for. Following are
the situations when using a pile foundation system can be beneficial.

 When the groundwater table is high foundation pilings are the best solution.
 Heavy and un-uniform loads from superstructure are imposed.
 Other types of foundations are costlier or not feasible.
 When the soil at shallow depth is compressible.
 When there is the possibility of scouring, due to its location near the river bed or
seashore, etc.
 When there is a canal or deep drainage system near the structure.
 When soil excavation is not possible up to the desired depth due to poor soil conditions.
  When it becomes impossible to keep the foundation trenches dry by pumping or by any
other measure due to heavy inflow of seepage.
The method of construction of pile foundations depends on the type of pile, whether the pile is a
bored pile or a driven pile.

Method # 1. Bored Pile:

In the case of a bored pile, a circular hole is drilled into the soil/rock up to the required depth,
with the help of rotary or percussion drilling tools, similar to those used for soil exploration.
Temporary casing of minimum 1-m length is generally used in the bore hole. Additional length
of temporary casing may be used depending on the condition of soil strata and groundwater
level. Drilling fluid or drilling mud of suitable consistency may also be used instead of
temporary casing for stabilizing the sides of the bore hole. The drilling mud is a bentonite
suspension with montmorillonite clay having exchangeable sodium cations.

Method # 2. Driven Piles:

The equipment for driving and installation of driven piles, known as pile driving rig, consists of a
movable steel or timber structure designed for handling, pitching and driving the piles in the
correct position and alignment. A hammer, operating in the guides or leaders of the rig, is used to
provide the required energy for driving the piles.

Method # 3. Screw Pile:

A screw pile consists of a cast iron or steel shaft terminating into a helix or screw base. The pile
shaft may be hollow or solid. The pile is installed by screwing the pile into the ground by using
an electric motor. Screw piles are useful in soft clay or loose sand, where the large contact area
of the screw helps in increasing the load capacity of the pile through skin friction resistance.

It consists of a hollow cylindrical shaft, in the form of a hollow steel pipe of diameter 5-100 cm,
with one or more helical plates welded outside at different heights in the form of plates of
various thicknesses and diameters. The screw pile is provided with a 45° end cut to assist the
driving of the pile.

The “thread” or helix on the screw pile allows it to be turned into the ground with speed and
accuracy and without the noise and vibrations associated with a pile driver. The addition of the
helix also increases the bearing capacity and pull-out resistance, making screw piles a good
option for deep foundations, such as for transmission towers, as well as lighter load projects such
as decks or fences.

Screw piles are the fastest, most flexible and environmentally friendly foundation options
available. Installing a screw pile does not require any pre-excavation, and there is no need to
dispose of tailings. There is no waiting time for the concrete to cure, and there are no noisy pile
drivers or cumbersome cement trucks to deal with.

CAISSONS

A caisson foundation also called as pier foundation is a watertight retaining structure used as a
bridge pier, in the construction of a concrete dam, or for the repair of ships. It is a prefabricated
hollow box or cylinder sunk into the ground to some desired depth and then filled with concrete
thus forming a foundation. Caisson foundation is Most often used in the construction of bridge
piers & other structures that require foundation beneath rivers & other bodies of water. This is
because caissons can be floated to the job site and sunk into place. Caisson foundations are
similar in form to pile foundations, but are installed using a different method. It is used when soil
of adequate bearing strength is found below surface layers of weak materials such as fill or peat.
It is a form of deep foundation which are constructed above ground level, then sunk to the
required level by excavating or dredging material from within the caisson. Caissons (also
sometimes called "piers") are created by auguring a deep hole into the ground, and then filling it
with concrete. Steel reinforcement is sometimes utilized for a portion of the length of the
caisson. Caissons are drilled either to bedrock (called "rock caissons") or deep into the
underlying soil strata if a geotechnical engineer finds the soil suitable to carry the building load.
When caissons rest on soil, they are generally "belled" at the bottom to spread the load over a
wider area. Special drilling bits are used to remove the soil for these "belled caissons". The
caisson foundations carry the building loads at their lower ends, which are often bell-shaped.
Functions of Caisson Foundation
The foundation system of and the soils beneath the building prevent the complex from moving
vertically. When a load is placed on soil, most soils settle. This creates a problem when the
building settles but the utilities do not. Even more critical than settlement is differential
settlement. This occurs when parts of your building settle at different rates, resulting in cracks,
some of which may affect the structural integrity of the building. Conversely, in some rare
instances soils may swell, pushing your building upwards and resulting in similar problems.
Therefore, the foundation system must work in tandem with the soils to support the building.

Caisson Construction Process

After some initial form work and concrete pours, the cutting edge is floated to the breakwater by
towboat and fastened to the caisson guide. Concrete is placed (poured) into steel forms built up
along the perimeter of the box. With every concrete placement, the box becomes heavier and
sinks into the water along the caisson guide.

Forms are also built inside the box around the air domes and concrete is placed in between. The
resulting open tubes above the air domes are called dredge wells.
When the caisson finally touches the river bottom, the air domes are removed and earth is
excavated through the long dredge well tubes, as shown in the animation below. The caisson
sinks into the river bottom. Excavation continues until the caisson sinks to its predetermined
depth.

As a final step, concrete is placed (poured) into the bottom 30 feet of the hollow dredge wells
and the tops are sealed.

Substructure Construction (e.g., Abutments, Piers)

The substructure serves as the bridge’s foundation, supporting the superstructure and transferring
loads to the ground. Abutments are the end supports on the banks of the span, while piers are the
intermediate supports. Constructing these elements requires precision and attention to detail to
ensure they can withstand the forces exerted by the bridge and the environmental conditions.
Materials like reinforced concrete and steel are commonly used for their strength and durability.

ABUTMENTS

Abutments are earth-retaining structures which support the superstructure at the beginning and
end of a bridge. These are retaining walls with the additional function of supporting vertical
permanent and transient loads. A bridge abutment is an essential component of a bridge
structure; it serves the purpose of connecting the bridge to approaching roadways and provides
support to the structure vertically by distributing the weight of the bridge.

Abutments are provided at the end of the bridge span. It helps in transmitting the weight of the
bridge superstructure to the ground. Longer-span bridges will have several abutments at defined
intervals, which provide support throughout the bridge by equal weight distribution.
The type of abutment is chosen based on the following factors,

 Available spaces
 Geological factors of the bridge site
 Project budget
Functions of Abutments

 Load transmission from the bridge deck to its foundation.

 Abutment helps maintain the equilibrium in the bridge by resisting vertical and horizontal
loads.
 Provides vertical support to bridge deck.
 Abutment helps in resisting or transmitting self-weight, lateral loads (such as earth
pressure), and wind loads
Type of Abutments

The type of abutment is chosen based on the following factors,

 Available spaces
 Geological factors of the bridge site
 Project budget
a) Gravity Abutment – resist horizontal earth pressure with its dead weight and dead weight
of retained soil for abutments with inclined back face. These may be constructed of stone
masonry or concrete masonry (mass concrete). These are used for abutments of small height.

b) Cantilever Abutment – derive lateral resistance through embedment of the stem by

cantilever action. These are constructed of reinforced concrete.

d) Stub Abutment – is a relatively short abutment which is used at the top of an embankment
or slope. Unless rock foundation exists at the site, stub abutment is supported on piles.

e) Spill Through Abutment – this utilizes two or more columns with a cap beam at the top.
The cap beam supports the superstructure. The fill is allowed to spill through the open spaces
between the columns and only a portion of the embankment is retained. The approach slab is
supported on the abutment.

f) Reinforced earth Abutment – consists of modular facing units that retain the soil which are
tied in to the fill by roads, strips or bars. The ties are in tension and are kept in position by
 friction forces on their surfaces. This is not used so far in Ethiopia. It is being used in many
parts of the world, and is preferred for its low cost and aesthetics.

Abutment Construction Process

Most highway bridge abutments are constructed from reinforced concrete. As with piers, the
most common substantial maintenance action addressing structural concerns at abutments is
concrete surface repair. There are two issues that affect abutments and not piers, drainage from
the approach roadway and earth pressure.

Uncontrolled drainage from the approach may wash around abutment wings and underneath stub
abutments, leaving the foundations exposed. Improving drainage at approach will help mitigate
this (Figure below). Another option is to excavate the fill and install a drainage system adjacent
to the abutment. This may by a proprietary backwall drain system or a section of drained
aggregate from which water is piped away. Excavation may also allow for the installation of
granular backfill material to relieve excess pressure on the abutment.

PIERS
Piers are substructure elements that support the superstructure at intermediate points between
abutments for bridges with two or more spans.

Superstructure Construction (e.g., Beams, Deck)

The superstructure is the part of the bridge that actually spans the obstacle the bridge is intended
to cross. It includes elements such as beams and the deck. Beams can be made from a variety of
materials, including steel, concrete, or a combination of both. The deck is the surface of the
bridge on which vehicles or pedestrians travel. The construction of the superstructure requires
careful coordination, as the beams must be placed with precision, and the deck must be
constructed to provide a smooth, durable surface.

Construction Methods in Bridge Superstructure

Scaffolding and Formwork Systems

Scaffolding provides temporary support for workers and materials during the construction or
repair of the bridge. Formwork is the mold into which concrete is poured to form structural
elements like piers and beams. These systems must be designed to be sturdy and safe, as they are
critical for the successful execution of various construction tasks.

Concrete Pouring and Curing

Concrete pouring is a pivotal process in bridge construction, requiring a coordinated effort to

ensure that the concrete is of the right mix and consistency. Once poured, the concrete must be
allowed to cure properly to achieve the desired strength. Curing involves maintaining the
appropriate temperature and moisture levels over a specific period. This process is crucial for the
concrete to harden correctly and reach the necessary durability and load-bearing capacity.

Steelwork Installation and Welding

Steelwork is often used in bridge construction for its high strength-to-weight ratio. The
installation of steel components must be done with precision, and welding is a common method
used to join these elements securely. Welding must be performed by certified professionals to
ensure that the joints are strong and can withstand the stresses of the bridge’s load and
environmental factors.

Pre-stressed and Post-tensioning Techniques

Pre-stressing and post-tensioning are techniques used to reinforce concrete in bridge

construction. Pre-stressing involves applying forces to the steel reinforcement before the
concrete is poured, while post-tensioning applies forces after the concrete has hardened. These
methods are used to improve the load-bearing capacity of concrete elements, allowing for longer
spans and more slender bridge designs.

Each of these methodologies plays a vital role in the construction of a bridge, requiring a blend
of engineering expertise, precision, and careful planning to ensure the structure’s integrity and
longevity.
Quality Control Measures
Testing of Materials

Quality control in bridge construction begins with rigorous testing of materials. Before any
material is used in the construction process, it must be tested to ensure it meets the required
standards for durability, strength, and safety. This includes testing of concrete, steel, and other
materials for properties such as compressive strength, tensile strength, and resistance to
environmental factors. Laboratories equipped with advanced testing equipment perform a series
of standardized tests, and only materials that pass these tests are approved for use in
construction.

Inspection and Testing During Construction

Continuous inspection and testing during the construction process are crucial to maintaining
quality control. This involves on-site inspections by qualified engineers and inspectors who
monitor the construction activities to ensure that they are carried out according to the project
specifications and industry standards. They check the alignment, dimensions, and placement of
components, and conduct tests such as slump tests for concrete and ultrasonic testing for welds.
Any deviations from the specified criteria are addressed immediately to prevent future structural
issues.

Compliance with Engineering Specifications

Ensuring compliance with engineering specifications is a key aspect of quality control. Every
aspect of the bridge construction must adhere to the detailed engineering plans and specifications
that have been developed. These specifications include the exact materials to be used, their
dimensions, and the methods of construction. Quality control teams verify that the work done on-
site is in line with these specifications. Compliance is critical not only for the integrity of the
bridge but also for the safety of its future users and the longevity of the structure itself.
The quality control measures in bridge construction are a series of systematic processes designed
to ensure that every phase of the project, from material selection to the final construction, meets
the highest standards of quality and safety. These measures are integral to the project’s success,
helping to prevent costly and dangerous failures and ensuring that the bridge will stand the test of
time.

Health, Safety, and Environmental Considerations

Risk Assessment and Mitigation Strategies

The first step in ensuring health and safety on a construction site is to conduct a thorough risk
assessment. This process involves identifying potential hazards that could cause harm to workers
or the environment. Once these risks are identified, mitigation strategies are developed to either
eliminate the hazard or reduce the risk to an acceptable level. These strategies may include
changes to the construction process, the use of safer materials, or the implementation of new
safety protocols. Regular reviews of these risks and strategies are essential as conditions on the
construction site change.

Safety Equipment and Training

Providing the right safety equipment is only part of the equation; ensuring that all personnel are
properly trained in its use is equally important. Workers must be equipped with personal
protective equipment (PPE) such as helmets, gloves, high-visibility clothing, and safety
harnesses. Training programs are conducted to educate workers on the correct use of this
equipment, as well as on general safety practices and the specific hazards of their job. This
training is not a one-time event but an ongoing process that includes refreshers and updates as
new equipment or procedures are introduced.

Monitoring Environmental Impact

Construction projects, particularly large-scale ones like bridges, can have significant
environmental impacts. It is essential to monitor these impacts continuously throughout the
project. This includes tracking air and water quality, noise levels, and the health of local wildlife
and vegetation. Monitoring ensures that the project complies with environmental regulations and
allows for the quick implementation of corrective actions if negative impacts are detected. It also
involves keeping the public informed about the project’s environmental performance.

Emergency Response Planning

Despite the best efforts to prevent incidents, it is crucial to have a robust emergency response
plan in place. This plan outlines the procedures to be followed in the event of an accident or
environmental incident. It includes evacuation routes, contact information for emergency
services, and procedures for containing and mitigating any environmental spills or damages.
Regular drills are conducted to ensure that all workers are familiar with the emergency response
plan and can act quickly and effectively if an incident occurs.

Project Management and Supervision

Coordination between Different Teams

Effective project management hinges on the seamless coordination between various teams
involved in the construction of a bridge. This involves synchronizing the activities of design
engineers, construction workers, safety inspectors, and subcontractors. Regular coordination
meetings are essential to ensure that all teams are aligned with the project goals, understand their
roles and responsibilities, and are aware of the progress and challenges of other teams. Effective
communication channels, such as project management software or regular briefings, are
established to facilitate this coordination.

Schedule and Timeline Management

Managing the schedule and timeline is critical to the success of a bridge construction project.
Project managers develop detailed timelines that outline every phase of the project, from initial
design to final commissioning. These timelines are used to track progress and ensure that the
project remains on schedule. Delays can be costly, so potential bottlenecks are identified early,
and contingency plans are put in place. Regular progress updates are provided to stakeholders to
keep them informed and to make adjustments to the schedule as necessary.
Budget and Cost Control

Budget and cost control are essential to ensure that the project is completed within the allocated
financial resources. Project managers closely monitor expenditures, track costs against the
budget, and implement cost-saving measures without compromising on quality. Regular financial
reporting is conducted to provide transparency and to identify any areas where costs may be
escalating. This allows for timely interventions to keep the project on budget.

Change Management Procedures

Change is inevitable in any construction project, and effective change management procedures
are necessary to handle these changes without disrupting the project flow. These procedures
outline the steps to be taken when changes are proposed, including how to assess the impact on
the schedule, budget, and resources. All changes are documented, and approvals are obtained
from the necessary stakeholders before implementation. This ensures that changes are managed
systematically and do not lead to unnecessary delays or cost overruns.

Testing and Commissioning

Load Testing and Structural Analysis

Load testing is a critical phase in bridge construction, where the bridge is subjected to loads it is
designed to carry. This test ensures that the bridge can handle the intended traffic load and
environmental stresses such as wind, vibration, and thermal expansion.

Structural analysis is performed alongside or after load testing to evaluate the bridge’s response
to these loads. Advanced computational models are used to predict how the bridge will behave
under different conditions and to identify any areas of concern that may require reinforcement or
design modification.

Engineers use sensors and monitoring equipment to measure deflection, strain, vibration, and
stress on the bridge during load testing. The data collected is then analyzed to confirm that the
structure behaves as expected and meets safety standards.
Final Inspections and Certifications

After load testing and structural analysis, the bridge undergoes a series of final inspections.
These inspections are comprehensive and cover every aspect of the construction, from the
integrity of materials to the quality of workmanship.

Inspectors check for any deviations from the design specifications and ensure that all
construction practices have been followed correctly. They also ensure that the bridge meets all
local, state, and federal regulations.

Once the bridge has passed all inspections, it receives certifications from the appropriate
authorities. These certifications are legal documents that declare the bridge safe for public use
and are often a prerequisite for the bridge to be opened to traffic.

Handover Procedures

The handover procedures mark the transition of the bridge from the construction team to the
owner, usually a government or private entity responsible for its maintenance and operation.

This process includes the transfer of all relevant documents, such as construction records, design
documents, warranties, and maintenance manuals. It ensures that the owner has all the
information needed to maintain and operate the bridge effectively.

Training may also be provided to the maintenance staff to familiarize them with the bridge’s
specific features and requirements.

A formal handover meeting is often held to confirm that all contractual obligations have been
met and to officially sign off on the project completion.

Maintenance and Post-Construction Activities

Maintenance Planning and Scheduling

Maintenance planning for a bridge begins before construction is even completed. It involves
developing a comprehensive plan that outlines all maintenance work required to keep the bridge
in optimal condition throughout its lifespan.

Scheduling is a critical component of maintenance planning. It includes routine inspections,

cleaning, repairs, and replacements that need to occur at regular intervals. This schedule is based
on the expected wear and tear of the bridge components, environmental factors, and usage
patterns.

The maintenance schedule is designed to be proactive rather than reactive, aiming to prevent
issues before they arise. This approach helps in extending the life of the bridge and ensuring
safety for its users.
 Site Visit Report
Recall that Your office has invited competent contractors for the
construction of URRAP RIVER BRIDGE Project at HGW Zone on
Addis Zemen dated November 08, 2024.
Following the invitation our company assigned the staffs to visit the
site and down below is the site visit report.
The site is located 4km North West Shambu Town which is 303km
far from Addis Ababa. The site is Easily accessible to transport
Construction Materials and also easy to hire skilled and unskilled
workers from the local community.
Additionally, our company has good past experience of working in
Horro Guduru Wollaga zone, which makes the work easier and leads
the project to complete within the required period and needed quality.
 3.5.6 Schedules
The Schedules are attached on the next pages to this document.

Those are: -

 Physical (Work) Schedule

 Manpower Schedule
 Equipment Schedule
 Physical (Work) Schedule
  Manpower
(Professional) Schedule
  Equipment
(Machinery) Schedule